SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, Feb 21: A group of boys and girls from Jammu and Kashmir returned home after experiencing the cultural heritage of Jharkhand, exploring its scenic locations, and learning about coal mining in Dhanbad.
A total of 150 students from six districts—Srinagar, Kupwara, Pulwama, Baramulla, Badgam, and Anantnag—spent six days in Dhanbad as part of their visit to Jharkhand. During their stay, they learned about the state’s culture, handicrafts, and traditions. The students also showcased the cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir through performances.
Cultural Exchange Programme
District Youth Officer (DYO) Bipin Kumar Mishra stated that the week-long tour was organized by Nehru Yuva Kendra under the central government’s inter-state cultural exchange programme.
As part of their itinerary, the students visited coal mines, IIT-ISM, Maithon Dam of DVC, the historic Topchachi Lake, and Binod Bihari Mahto Koylanchal University (BBMKU). They were impressed by Jharkhand’s picturesque landscapes and well-established educational infrastructure.
The students also won the hearts of the local people by performing cultural programs in traditional Kashmiri attire at Town Hall.
MLA Hosts Dinner for Students
Dhanbad Sadar MLA Raj Sinha hosted a dinner in their honour at his Jagjivan Nagar residence. The students were served a variety of Jharkhand’s traditional dishes, including Litti Chokha, which became a favourite among the visitors.
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“As part of the ‘Vatan Ko Jano’ cultural exchange programme, the central government and the Ministry of Home Affairs organized this visit. Being an MLA, I wanted to extend my hospitality by hosting this dinner, and I’m happy that the students enjoyed it,” said Raj Sinha.
Changing Scenario in Kashmir
Gulam Hassan Mir, a teacher accompanying the students, expressed his happiness about the visit. “The students thoroughly enjoyed their time in Jharkhand. The situation in Kashmir has changed—people now live and move around freely without fear. We thank Modiji for transforming the state’s atmosphere,” he said.
“I am grateful to Modiji for taking action against those who encouraged stone-pelting and for creating a peaceful environment,” Mir added.
Muskan Riyaz, one of the students, shared her thoughts on India’s diversity. “After visiting Jharkhand, I truly feel that India is a country where people of different cultures and religions live together in harmony. Even though we are far from Kashmir, we feel at home here,” she said. She also noted that the situation in Kashmir has improved.
Another student, Umar Mustaque, praised the hospitality of the people of Jharkhand, including the MLA and officials. “We were overwhelmed by their warmth and kindness,” he said, inviting the people of Jharkhand to visit Kashmir, as the region has now changed for the better.
Monahil, a student from Srinagar district, credited Prime Minister Modi for the transformation in Kashmir. “Modiji has brought positive changes by improving infrastructure and empowering women,” she said.
